Casey on Collapse of Lebanese Government

WASHINGTON, DC— U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs, released the following statement after Hezbollah forced the collapse of the Lebanese government:

"Today, the Lebanese government fell as the militant group Hezbollah withdrew from the unity cabinet led by Prime Minister Hariri. During this challenging time, I call for calm in Lebanon and for all political forces not to resort violence to achieve their political aims.

“Hezbollah's activities have a direct impact on broader U.S. interests in the region, including inspiring militancy, threatening regional stability and complicating prospects for a peace settlement between Israel and the Palestinians. As I expressed repeatedly during my visit to Beirut in July 2010, I support an independent and sovereign Lebanon and hope that its leaders can establish a government that reflects the democratic and peaceful aspirations of the Lebanese people."

On June 9th, 2010 Senator Casey chaired a Senate Foreign Relations Near Eastern, South and Central Asian Affairs Subcommittee hearing on the threat posed by a resurgent Hezbollah.